Deep Blue Aerospace has completed the production of the 5-meter diameter first-stage propellant tanks for its Nebula-2 rocket. The tanks, designed for liquid oxygen and kerosene, were manufactured at the company's Changqing facility. These components represent the largest liquid rocket propellant tanks currently produced within the domestic commercial space sector.
The Nebula-2 rocket utilizes a stainless steel structure, which provides thermal stability and reduces manufacturing time. The development team employed modular production and vertical welding techniques to improve structural reliability and minimize mechanical connection points. This approach aims to facilitate future large-scale production requirements.
The company also reported that its 130-ton class Thunder RS liquid oxygen-kerosene engine successfully completed a 200-second long-duration ground test. This test duration covers the full operational time required for flight. The engine is a critical component in the rocket's overall propulsion system.
Nebula-2 is designed with a payload capacity exceeding 25 tons for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and over 18 tons for a 500km Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO). The rocket features a chopstick-style recovery system, which eliminates the need for landing legs and reduces structural weight to enhance overall performance.
